Seven suspects including teens arrested for murder and arson in Mt Ayliff

Dec 18, 2018

A well-coordinated investigative effort by a newly-assembled team of detectives resulted in the arrest of seven suspects - two 17-year-old male suspects, three females, aged between 21-26 years old, and two male suspects, aged 21 and 23 years old.

"The seven suspects are charged for murder and arson after two women were brutally attacked and calously murdered while their houses were torched," said police spokesperson, Captain Khaya Tonjeni.

"The two deceased, aged between 48 and 52 years old, were allegedly attacked and murdered by a group of community members on the evening of 12 December 2018 at their home in Ngonyameni, Mt Ayliff."

Murder and arson in Mt Ayliff condemned

Acting SAPS Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Maj Gen Andre Swart, condemned the murders and said, "such cowardly attacks on our women cannot be tolerated in our province and detectives must do all they can to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book".

All five suspects are expected to appear at the Mt Ayliff Magistrate's Court facing two murder charges and arson on Tuesday.

"The two minors are going to be taken to social workers who will make a recommendation on which steps to take."

Maj Gen Swart commended the speedy arrest and dedication displayed by the team of detectives.

"We immediately elevated the matter to the province because of its seriousness. We will continue to explore other ways to educate the public against the attack of our weak and vulnerable," he added.

"We will also engage other government departments to create awareness."

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